Chris Brunt has admitted Albion’s season has been a ‘shambles on and off the field’ irrespective of the club’s survival.

Speaking after Albion’s defeat at the Emirates, the club captain admitted that safety should be deemed as a success.

Albion’s campaign has been played against a backdrop of issues, including the sacking of Steve Clarke, the Nicolas Anelka ‘quenelle’ saga and other problems which arose following the appointment of Pepe Mel, notably the influence of former head of technical performance Dave McDonough.

Brunt didn't mention any specific issues, but said: “Even if we are safe we will be bitterly disappointed with a poor season. It has been a bit of a shambles on and off the field

“If we do not learn from this season, we will not learn from anything.”

Meanwhile, Pepe Mel once again reiterated his desire to remain at West Bromwich Albion - but insisted that he would only do so if the Baggies agreed to his own demands.

The Baggies boss has spoken several times of the fact that his future remains in doubt.

He intends speaking with the club after the final game of the season next week.

Albion still have two games left to play - they face Sunderland on Wednesday, before taking on Stoke this Sunday.

Mel has reaffirmed his want to see-out the project at Albion, but is still unsure whether a compromise will be found.

The Spaniard has an 18-month deal in place but there is a break clause which enables him to walk away this summer.

He has hinted that he will require the means and resources to replace several players who are out of contract or whose loans are ending.

“There are 13 players who are going to be out of contract,” he said.

“It’s like making up a new team so West Brom has a lot of work to do.

“After the Stoke City game we have a meeting and then we will have a meeting whether I’ll be there next season.

“I can tell you now I’d really like to be with West Bromwich Albion next season.

“For me, the West Brom supporters are the best. They are very, very kind to me. But all focus is on the next match. This is why I would be happy to continue together.

“And the really important thing is that the club know what I feel and what I believe. I will have a meeting with the chairman and express what I want in order for me to continue.

“Right now we still one more point to ensure we’re safe and after we’ve seen what Sunderland have done in the last month, anything is possible.”